Khan or Peterson? The experts decide

Amir Khan UD 12 Lamont Peterson: Lamont Peterson will have the adrenaline of a hometown crowd to hopefully inspire him into giving the performance of his life–one that entails getting on the inside and exerting relentless pressure.

However, maintaining that pace over 12 rounds will be a tall order against a strong boxer-puncher like Amir Khan, who, in addition to his jab, has the footspeed and handspeed to get out of trouble. Khan by unanimous decision.

Amir Khan TKO 6 Lamont Peterson: I actually give Lamont Peterson a decent chance if he can stand up to Amir Khan’s pressure. But sometimes, a hometown crowd can be a detriment, particularly for a legitimate underdog.

Peterson can’t match Khan’s power, and he’ll have to stand and fight for his people at some point. That’s when he’s vulnerable against a pretty good finisher.

Amir Khan UD 12 Lamont Peterson: Lamont Peterson will make a good stand on what is home turf, but he’s not a big enough banger. Amir Khan is quicker, has more pop, and shakes off some tough spots for a points win.

However, I don’t think he can outbox Khan. Peterson will have to hurt Khan to beat him. That’s possible but unlikely given Peterson’s relative lack of power. The result: Khan by clear unanimous decision.

Amir Khan SD 12 Lamont Peterson: Amir Khan by split decision. Lamont Peterson is such a good boxer, I can’t see Khan blasting him out. I think there is something special happening with Khan.

He is gaining more and more confidence as a champion, sort of the way that Andre Ward blossomed. I think it will be a close fight between two skilled boxers, but I see Khan just edging Peterson in a split decision.